Flag Stitch Knitting Pattern

The flag stitch knitting pattern uses a combination of knit and purl stitches to create a textured fabric resembling little flags or pennants.

(I have also seen it called the Pennant Knit Stitch Pattern). 

Since the texture aligns vertically, it could almost be called a rib stitch. It’s beginner-friendly, worked on a six-row repeat and a stitch repeat of seven plus one.  The resulting fabric is reversible.

Skill Level

Easy

Abbreviations Used

K / k = knit

P / p = purl

St / st(s) = stitch / stitches

CO = cast on

BO = Bind off

*   *  = Repeat the instructions between the two asterisks for the number of times indicated in the pattern

Skills Needed

Cast on using Long Tail Cast on Method

Knit Stitch

Purl Stitch

Bind off

Weave in End

Block (optional)

Supplies

• Yarn: (I used a CYC #4 worsted weight yarn, 100% acrylic), but feel free to use whatever yarn you have on hand for this practice swatch. This stitch pattern can be worked on any type of yarn, but to see the stitches and the little “flags” I recommend that you use a solid or light-colored variegated yarn.
• Needles: I used a number U.S. 7 (4.5 mm needles). Remember to use a needle size appropriate for the yarn you have chosen. Here is an article with more information on needle sizes.
• Scissors
• Yarn needle for weaving in ends.

Notes about the Flag Stitch

• The instructions are written in U.S. terms.
• The pattern is worked over a multiple of 7 plus one stitches.
• This is a 6-row repeat.
• It lays flat and does not curl.
• This pattern is reversible meaning that the right and wrong sides look alike.

Is this Pattern Reversible?

Yes.  Here are photos of both the right and wrong sides of the Flag Stitch Fabric.

Written Instructions

Cast On: Multiples of 7 +1

Row 1: * K1, P1, K5 *, K1

Row 2: P1, * P4, K2, P1 *

Row 3: * K1, P3, K3 *, K1

Row 4: P1, * P2, K4, P1 *

Row 5: * K1, P5, K1 *, K1

Row 6: P1, * K6, P1 *Repeat these 6 rows until you have reached your desired length. End with row 6, bind off and weave in ends.

Instructions Written Out

Cast on a multiple of 7 plus one, so for the sample shown, I cast on 22 stitches. (7 x 3) +1/

Row 1: (right side) knit across the row.

Row 2: Make one Purl stitch. Then, work 4 purl stitches. * Repeat the instructions between the two asterisks until you reach the end of the row.

Row 3: *Make 3 knit stitches and 2 purl stitches. * Repeat the instructions between the two asterisks until you reach the end of the row.

Row 4: *Make 3 knit stitches, and then 2 purl stitches. * Repeat the instructions between the two asterisks until you reach the end of the row.

Row 5: *Make 1 knit stitch, and then work 4 purl stitches. * Repeat the instructions between the two asterisks until you reach the end of the row.

Row 6: Knit the entire row.

Repeat these six rows until you reach your desired length. End with row 6, bind off and weave in ends. Block if desired.

Where to Use this Stitch Pattern?

• Scarves
• Washcloths and Dishcloths
• Potholders and placemats
• Cowls and Wraps
• Wearable things such as sweaters and cardigans

Conclusion

This lovely stitch pattern produces a fabric that looks like little flags or pennants, thus its name. Worked with a combination of knit and purl stitches on a six-row repeat, it is easy even for beginners. I personally think it looks a lot like a rib stitch, but you may not agree with me. Best of all, it’s reversible which makes it perfect for any project where both sides of the fabric would show.

Grab your needles and a little yarn, and practice this knit pattern.

Happy Knitting,

Janice

Flag Stitch Knitting Pattern: Pin for Future Reference

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Hi, there, I'm Janice, the voice behind this website and avid knitter and crochet enthusiast. I want to share my passion with you and help you learn how to knit or crochet, smarter.

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